Living together: Religious leaders stress need for interfaith forum

Say members of all religions and sects should work together to promote tolerance, social harmony.

Speakers at a seminar expressed a strong desire for an interfaith forum where members of all religions and sects can unite, discuss issues and come up with collective solutions to promote the culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

According to a press release, more than 100 renowned religious scholars, peace activists, prominent Shia and Sunni leaders as well as Christian, Sikh and Hindu leaders participated in a one-day session titled Unity, Social Cohesion and Interfaith Harmony held on Sunday. The event was organised by PAIMAN Alumni Trust.

Addressing the participants on the occasion, Hindu leader Haroon Sarabdiyal said every religion regardless of its diversity speaks one common language of peace.



“We may have different religions, different languages, but we all belong to the human race. Reverend Joseph John  said, “We should put aside our differences and work together for a prosperous and harmonious society for our coming generations.”

Maqsood Ahmad Salfi said it is important to understand the diversity and multiplicity of religions and sects.

“We should try to accommodate all diverse groups and preach the lesson of harmony and peace as given in the Holy Quran and practised by our Prophet (PBUH),” said the religious leader.

The participants resolved to promote the lessons of acceptance and tolerance and work with the youth, women and religious groups for interfaith harmony.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 1^st, 2014.